ANALYSIS OF FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE DEVELOPMENT OF WIND POWER IN ATLANTIC CANADA: APPLICATION OF DISCRETE REGRESSION MODELLING

Abstract

Widespread development of wind energy in Canada can not only increase energy savings to consumers, but also help reduce the negative environmental impacts of generating electricity from non-renewable sources. Although the general public tends to prefer “green” electricity generated using wind systems, there are also reported “not-in-my-backyard” concerns with the siting of wind turbines. This study investigated public attitudes and perceptions about “green” energy generated from renewable energy sources. The study focused on wind power, and is based on a sample of respondents from NB, NS, and PEI. The findings suggest that residents highly support electricity generated from wind power, but were also concerned with turbine effects on bird fatality. Important determinants of consumer acceptance of wind power technologies and development included level of education, proximity of dwelling to wind turbine installations, perceptions of the planet as a self-cleaning biological system, and concerns with visual intrusion.